Defence Minister David McGuinty is set to make an announcement next week during his visit to the United Kingdom that Canada will participate in an international initiative to develop the next generation of stealth fighter jets, as per sources from CBC News. Canada has finalized an agreement to join the Global Combat Air Program in an “observer” capacity, according to government insiders.
The Global Combat Air Program, a multibillion-dollar venture involving the U.K., Japan, and Italy, aims to create and manufacture the sixth-generation fighter jet by 2035. Retired lieutenant-general Christopher Coates emphasized the importance of Canada’s involvement, stating that the country needs to proactively address its defense industry and strategies to avoid falling behind.
Currently, Canada is evaluating the acquisition of 88 F-35s from the U.S., following a review launched over a year ago in response to trade threats and tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. Joining the international fighter jet development program is not intended to replace the F-35 purchase but to supplement it with advanced capabilities, according to Coates.
Lt.-Gen. Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, is currently in the U.K. for discussions with British, Japanese, and Italian counterparts regarding their fighter jet program. McGuinty is also expected to attend the Farnborough International Airshow next week, where a formal signing ceremony with the partnering countries is likely to take place to solidify Canada’s observer status in the program.
By joining as an observer, Canada aims to engage in early technology development to benefit its future defense capabilities. This move does not involve financial or policy commitments but is seen as a strategic partnership to enhance Canadian technological advancements. The decision-makers involved in these discussions preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the topic.
Trevor Taylor, a defense expert, likened Canada’s observer status to a “first date,” highlighting the importance of cautious exploration. This step brings Canada closer to European allies while signaling its autonomy in defense decisions, especially in the context of the U.S.’s independent development of the F-47 sixth-generation fighter jet.
The U.S. ambassador to Canada has been pressing for the acquisition of 88 F-35s, emphasizing the importance of interoperability with American defense systems. The potential for Canada to have a mixed fleet of fighter jets has sparked discussions about the necessity of integration with U.S. military capabilities. McGuinty, along with other Canadian officials, is anticipated to participate in the upcoming airshow to further engage in defense procurement discussions.
